I Left Before He Learned My Worth novel Chapter 32

**TITLE: I Left Before He Learned My Worth**

**Chapter 32**

**ARIA**

The following day unfolded in a whirlwind of final touches and last-minute preparations. It felt as though time itself was racing ahead, and I was simply trying to keep pace. The seamstresses, with their nimble fingers and discerning eyes, conducted one final fitting of my ceremony gown. They made minute adjustments that were so subtle I could scarcely discern the changes. Each tug and tuck seemed to whisper promises of the momentous occasion that lay ahead.

Nina, ever the diligent guide, meticulously walked me through the intricate sequence of events for the blood moon ritual. “You need to practice the words until they flow from your lips effortlessly,” she instructed, her tone a blend of encouragement and urgency. I recited the incantations repeatedly, feeling the syllables dance on my tongue, until they became second nature—so familiar that I could recite them in my sleep if necessary.

Eliza arrived with the Luna jewelry, her eyes sparkling with excitement. As I adorned myself with the moonstone pieces, a gentle glow radiated against my skin, sending a shiver of sensation coursing through me. It felt as if the very territory was reaching out to acknowledge my presence, to welcome me into its fold.

“That’s perfectly normal,” Eliza reassured me, a knowing smile gracing her lips as she observed my reaction. “The magic is already beginning to weave its connection to the pack lands. Tomorrow, during the ceremony, that connection will solidify completely.” Her words filled me with a sense of anticipation, yet also a tinge of anxiety.

In the midst of yet another protocol review, a sudden uproar erupted near the entrance of the pack house, causing everyone to halt in their tracks. The air thickened with tension as we all turned our heads toward the source of the disturbance.

A messenger had arrived. From the Blackwood pack.

My stomach plummeted as Nina swiftly moved to receive the message Damon had sent. She returned moments later, her expression grave, clutching a sealed letter that seemed to carry the weight of the world.

“It’s addressed to you,” she said, her voice laced with concern as she handed it over. “Do you want to read it in private?”

I stared at the letter, its heavy parchment marked with the official insignia of the Blackwood pack. My hands trembled slightly as I accepted it, the reality of the situation sinking in.

“No,” I said resolutely. “Whatever he has to say won’t change anything. But I need to read it. I have to know what I’m up against.”

With a deep breath, I broke the seal and unfolded the letter. Damon’s handwriting—bold and aggressive—covered the page, each stroke a reminder of our tangled past.

*Aria,*

*I know you’re angry. I know I hurt you. But please, listen to what I have to say.*

*I’ve made so many mistakes. Choosing Sera, ignoring your devotion, taking you for granted. I see that now. I see everything clearly for the first time in years.*

*You’re my true mate. The bond I share with Sera is nothing compared to what we could have together. I’m prepared to do whatever it takes to prove that to you.*

*Don’t go through with this ceremony. Don’t bind yourself to a cursed Alpha out of spite or hurt pride. Come home to Blackwood, let me show you what we could be together.*

*If you refuse, if you insist on bonding with Kael, then I’ll have no choice but to invoke the ancient right of challenge. I’ll fight him for the right to claim you, and I will win. One way or another, Aria, you’re coming home where you belong.*

*This isn’t a threat. It’s a promise. I love you. I’ve always loved you, even when I was too stupid to admit it. Come back to me.*

*Damon*

As I finished reading, my hands shook with a mix of emotions. This letter was not a heartfelt plea; it was an ultimatum. Damon was demanding my return, and if I chose otherwise, he would resort to combat to reclaim me.

“What does it say?” Nina asked cautiously, her eyes searching mine for answers. I handed her the letter, watching as her expression darkened with each word she read.

“He’s definitely going to challenge,” she confirmed, her tone heavy with concern. “This letter makes it clear. He’ll show up tomorrow and invoke the ancient rite.”

“Is there any way we can stop him?” I asked, desperation creeping into my voice. “Can we bar him from pack lands, refuse to allow the challenge?”

“We could attempt it,” Nina replied slowly, weighing her words. “But it would be seen as dishonorable. Other packs would question why Shadowmere fears a fair challenge. It could damage our standing in the pack alliance.”

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